London Brown has become a household name in television, thanks to his gripping performance as Marvin in Power Book III: Raising Kanan. As Season 4 premiered on Starz on March 7, fans can expect even more depth from his character. In a recent conversation, Brown shared insights about his role, his upbringing in South Central Los Angeles, and the mentors who shaped his journey in comedy and acting.
Marvin’s Evolution in Raising Kanan
Since stepping into the role of Marvin, Brown has brought a level of authenticity that resonates with viewers. Marvin, the eldest brother of Raq Thomas, has undergone significant development, evolving from a hot-headed enforcer to a man seeking redemption. When asked about what fans can expect from Season 4, Brown hinted at deeper layers of Marvin’s character:
“In Season 4…Marvin starts to pay attention to his daughter (Jukebox) and starts to get concerned. Is she possibly starting to embrace some of my traits? So Marvin goes from being Super Dad to also being super protective of what she’s becoming.” – London Brown
Brown’s ability to bring nuance to his character comes from personal experience and deep understanding of the streets—a world he once witnessed firsthand.
Growing Up in South Central: A Mother’s Prayers and Choosing a Different Path
Born and raised in South Central LA, Brown grew up in an environment where gangs and violence were a daily reality. However, he credits his mother’s prayers and guidance for keeping him from becoming another statistic:
“Because we grew up in the hood…my Mother prayed that God would keep me so busy that I wouldn’t get caught up in a gang.” – London Brown
Instead of falling into the cycle that consumed many around him, Brown channeled his energy into the arts, thanks to participating in a performing arts program in his High School. Eventually London made a name for himself as both an actor and comedian.
Comedy Roots and Chris Tucker’s Influence
Long before landing his role in Raising Kanan, Brown was making people laugh on stage as a comedian. He credits legendary funnyman Chris Tucker as a mentor who helped guide him in the industry.
Thanks to renowned comedian DeRay Davis, London Brown experienced a once-in-a-lifetime moment when he was introduced to Chris Tucker during a stand-up comedy show. Shortly after their meeting, Tucker took Brown under his wing and later selected him as the opening act for his tour.
His background in comedy continues to coincide with his acting, allowing him to bring humor and humanity to his roles, even in a gritty crime drama like ‘Raising Kanan’.
As Power Book III: Raising Kanan Season 4 unfolds, London Brown is proving that his journey—from the streets of South Central to the heights of Hollywood—was no accident. It was built on talent, perseverance, and the unwavering belief that he was destined for more.
Follow London Brown on his journey here
Pop Culture • Lifestyle • Entertainment 